6 Facts About Ants You Didn’t Know

May 31, 2016

Don’t let their tiny stature fool you.

While ants may present themselves as minute critters, they’re capable of more than you think.

In fact, at this moment, they’re likely busy underground creating a thoughtful, intricate structure that will serve as their living quarters. They’re not all as complex as one in Brazil that’s been called the “Great Wall of China” of ant colonies, but don’t underestimate the creatures.

And when they’re not under the soil, you might see them roaming your kitchen counters, scurrying toward every crumb as they invade your space.

Ants are one of the most common household pests in the area. As annoying as they might be, they possess some unique qualities you might not be aware of! Check out these ant facts that might surprise you:

1. They can carry up to 50 times their body weight.

They may be small critters, but they can produce more force pound-per-pound because their muscles have a greater cross-sectional area relative to their body size when compared to larger animals. They have little problem picking up those pieces of food you drop!

2. Ants were around with the dinosaurs.

The ants you see crawling around today are estimated to have first evolved about 130 million years ago, as found through fossil evidence. Today, nearly 20,000 ant species now roam the earth.

3. Ants don’t have lungs.

Instead of lungs, ants breathe through small holes that cover their body. Oxygen enters the openings, and carbon dioxide leaves — which also means ants lack blood vessels.

4. Queen ants have wings.

When queen ants are born, they often possess wings for various purposes. Though they eventually shed their wings, the detail differentiates them from similar-looking ants. When they lose them, though, it can be tougher to tell the difference.

5. They’re smart and consistent.

Not only are ants smart enough to build living rafts during a flood, they even have assigned seating on these boats! Time and time again, those ants will remember their place and work with their counterparts to consistently build a raft.

6. Some people eat ants.

If you visit some countries, a side of ants could be served with your meal! As much as you cringe, some believe ants have a pleasant flavor, so they’re celebrated in many areas. If you’re not so keen on the idea of eating the pests, you can visit certain places that will serve them covered in chocolate.